Spain has been gripped by mass protests after the eviction of an 87‑year‑old woman in Madrid, an incident that snowballed into a nationwide movement demanding urgent housing reforms. Demonstrators set up camps in Puerta del Sol square, sweeping away rainwater as they vowed to resist evictions and push for political action.

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Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez initially attempted to calm tensions by introducing emergency legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable tenants. However, when parliament rejected the measures, Sánchez was forced to announce snap elections for November 29, 2026, nearly eight months ahead of schedule.

The announcement came just hours before a major demonstration in Barcelona, where thousands gathered in the capital of Catalunya — a region with a long‑standing separatist ambition. The protest turned violent, underscoring the fragile political climate and the urgency of addressing Spain’s housing crisis.

In response, the government unveiled a 21‑point proposal to tackle the issue, opening the door to a temporary settlement. Yet activists remain skeptical, arguing that only long‑term reforms can prevent further evictions and restore public trust.

Spain’s housing crisis has now become the central issue of the upcoming elections, with the protests symbolizing a broader frustration over economic inequality and political inaction.